Towards the end of the Blue Sweater, Jacqueline Novogratz
summarizes some of the lessons she learned over years of working in Africa,
India, and Pakistan. She steers readers and potential future volunteers away
from the belief that sentimentality and inspiration are the sole tools needed
to make a difference. The answers to poverty are found by encouraging
accountability and gaining perspective. Novogratz writes “people usually tell
you the truth if you listen hard enough”; it is all about paying attention and
listening to the needs of the people instead of attempting to implement
preformed ideals.
The story of the Blue Sweater is a unique perspective into
the interconnectedness of the planet through the global economy. Novogratz
recognized the capacity for the human spirit in places that others doubted and
refused to help. She makes it clear that every person and every family comes
from poverty at some point down the line, yet we all seem to forget our roots.
It is not individual heroes that will make the change but everyone that comes
together to take part in the vision. Building a vision that generations can
carry forward, participate, and believe in will have the power to create
lasting global change.
The Acumen has reached investment numbers of over $100,000,000
as a growing number of people around the world have heard her call and volunteered
their services. The difference that Jacqueline Novogratz has been able to
already make is truly amazing but her vision for creating global citizens will
continue to influence for many years to come.
Companies
such as Fitbit have discovered a simple, well-designed, and effective way of
tracking individual health and wellness on a day-by-day schedule. From the food
you eat, to the steps you take these trendy watches are not only working to keep
you healthy, but they are a visual cue to everyone you meet that you not only
care about your health but are actively working to do something about it. Footprint
is a new company that works in a similar fashion. Tracking your individual
Carbon Footprint, this new wristwatch takes into account any source of negative
or positive impact on the environment and gives you a daily update on how big
your footprint was that day.
Footprint
will effectively change the way that people imagine their personal impact on
the environment. As the Bystander Effect and other social theories show, people
rarely see the importance in not recycling one bottle or not taking the Metro
to work one day, because its difficult to perceive one person’s impact in a
world of billions. Everyone will be directly aware of their own Carbon
Footprint, as well as those of others wearing the wristwatch. Social pressure
will instigate people to change their daily habits and minimize their influence
on the health of the planet. The company utilizes Social Responsibility by
allowing people to know more about how their daily routines negatively effect
the environment on a larger scale and in ways that they may have previously
been unaware of.
This
cause is extremely important to me, as the planet is in grave danger and needs
the help of every individual to make a difference. The word Carbon Footprint is
thrown around with a lot of intangible definitions and pointing fingers. With
the new Footprint wristwatch it will be clear exactly who is trying to save the
planet and who is not, as well as how those seemingly minor daily decisions can
add up to the bigger picture. I hope Anima Mundi Development Partners can
become as passionate about his young company as I am and hopefully take one
step closer to a world we all dare to imagine.
As
Jacqueline Novogratz continues to search for a place that she is not only
welcomed but where she can make a real difference, she appears to meet
roadblock after roadblock. It was interesting to hear the perspective of the
women from Cote d’Ivoire who neither needed nor wanted her help and made that
very clear by poisoning her. Making the world a better place is not as simple
as just visiting an underdeveloped country and volunteering. It’s essential to
listen to their needs and promote change from the inside out. One of Novogratz
and similar humanitarians initial misconceptions was that it’s important to
support growth with the citizens that live and breath the every day struggle
and not just try to waltz into their country and start giving orders.
This
idea continued further in attempting to implement loaning programs in Rwanda,
where instead of giving them handouts, it was decisively more effective to hold
them accountable. In order for the microcredit programs to work, the African
women needed to be held to same expectations as anyone else no matter how big
the loans were. The whole idea behind Novogratz’s work and her driving
motivation was that woman are just as capable as any man, they just needed the
opportunity to show their capability. Borrowing even the smallest amount of
money allowed these woman a chance to start building credit and prove they
belonged in the growing economy alongside men.
Her
acknowledgement that success needs more than simply good intentions, you need
“show the world who we are through our actions, not merely words”, reminds me
of a quote from the Dark Knight. Bruce tells Rachel that its not who I am
underneath but what I do that defines me, as many of you most likely remember
(how could you forget). As the Blue Sweater clearly points out, many of these
poverty stricken, traditionally gender divided economies just need to afford
people the opportunity to show they can belong and they can succeed. Most
people just never get the chance to prove themselves or just don’t really know
where to start.
TO: Clark
Hansen, CEO of Anima Mundi Development Partners
FROM: R.
Tyler Evans, Research and Development Department
DATE: July
26th, 2015
SUBJECT: Investment Recommendation Memo
Soylent - Use less. Do More.
Dear Mr. Hansen,
Thank
you for considering our advice before following through with your next
investment. The newly formed Research and Development team at AMDP is excited
to share our research with you and hopefully excel this company into a new
generation of success. When you mentioned that you were currently seeking
investment opportunities that follow and embody the Triple Bottom Line, one
company jumped to the forefront of discussion here in the Research and
Development Department. Soylent is a relatively new company that invented a
meal replacement product and a company that you should definitely invest in.
Before I get into who Soylent is and what they are doing to demand attention, I
want to reiterate that basic characteristics and standards that were taken into
account while searching for the appropriate new investment for AMDP.
The Triple Bottom
Line (TBL):
A
successful accounting framework that includes the 3 P’s: People (Social), Plane
(Environmental), and Profit (Financial). Devised in 1994 by John Elkington, the
TBL strategy has been growing in popularity ever since. The aim of the
framework is to achieve sustainable development.
Corporate Social
Responsibility (CSR):
CSR
functions as a form of corporate self-regulation, which is actively worked into
the business model. Paying careful attentionto
compliance with all laws, standards, and appropriate procedures. A company that
embodies CSR goes further than taking responsibility for all corporate action,
and potential encourages positive change in the business environment.
Social Enterprise
:
An
organization or company that utilizes Social Enterprise aims to maximize
positive improvements in both human and environmental spheres. It is necessary
and more important to design an effective social impact than it is to focus on
the monetary profits of the company.
Carbon Footprint
:
The
Carbon Footprint of a company refers to the negative environmental impact or
levels of Carbon Dioxide and various other harmful chemical compounds that are
released as a result of the company’s activity. A common term is greenhouse
gases, which are responsible for depleting the ozone layer and global warming
effects.
What is Soylent?
Soylent
founder, Robert Rhinehart and a team of fellow young developers saw a need for a
simpler food source. Driven by the initial goal of breaking down food into the
smallest possible components they eventually created a drinkable food product
that effectively serves as a full nutritional meal replacement in 2013. It is
designed as a staple meal for adults providing all the maximum nutrition that a
normal daily diet would require.
Approved
by the FDA, Soylent is a healthy, fast, and affordable food source quickly
storming onto the scene from athletes to gamers across the nation. The idea
behind the company is a new choice for maintaining a balanced diet without
traditional food concerns or hindrances. No more grocery shopping, cooking, or
McDonald’s, Soylent can be used daily or variably however consumers chose to
acclimate it to their diet.
Soylent
includes protein, carbohydrates, fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, but
without excessive or unnecessary sugars, saturated fats, cholesterol, or
proceeded ingredients. The drink takes only minutes to prepare and equates to
less than $5 per meal when mixed and served correctly.
Why Soylent?
The
young company is important to follow because of the potential impact on the
food and nutrition battle across the globe. It is still growing in recognition
and acceptance in the field, but those that are aware of Soylent praise the
product. The meal replacement drink is also Vegan and can be used as a weight
loss dietary option.
Brian
Merchant, in an article for Motherboard, writes about his experiences drinking
nothing but Soylent for 30 days. Although originally uncertain, he lost 10
pounds, and his doctor told him he was in better shape than he was months
previously. He insists in his article that Soylent is not only healthy for
himself, but also environmentally healthy. By avoiding meat and cattle,
individuals are releasing the growing burden on the planet and endorsing a more
sustainable diet.
Another
avid consumer writes about his experiences using Soylent for over 5 months and
his transition to using the meal replacement in 90% of his diet. He praises the
drink for his loss of 24 lbs, lack of necessity to plan meals, lack of worry
about deficiency in nutrients. “Food is Fuel,” he states, and Soylent may be
the best possible fuel for the best price and easiest accessibility on the
market. There are numerous blog posts on the web about critics that decided
they couldn’t knock it till they tried it and ended up recognizing the
nutritional, financial, and time benefits firsthand.
The
company is still extremely small and just recently launched their first bottled
product to go along with the online bulk order options. It is still relatively
difficult to determine how other industry contenders will face the new star.
Some argue that they enjoy food, cooking, and all the hassle and bustle of
restaurants, which Soylent declares unnecessary. Rhinehart would tell foodies
that Soylent does not need to totally replace other food sources, but can also
be seen as a supplement to a regular diet.
In Line With AMDP
Standards :
Soylent
was originally conspired in order to make the people’s lives easier, healthier,
and more efficient. It takes a gallon of gasoline to produce just a pound of
beef and the cattle industry accounts for almost 25% of the Earth’s arable
land. Soylent accounts for the TBL strategy because is environmentally,
socially, and financially conscious. Although still a very small company, it’s
plans for Social Enterprise and Social Responsibility are undeniably on point
with global standards. Unless the planet and people are in a better place as a
result of the introduction of Soylent, then the product is a failure. The aim
of the company is to make people’s lives better, without leaving a large Carbon
Footprint and minimizing potential negative impacts to the environment.
Final Recommendation
:
After
reviewing the companies online presence, personally speaking with Rhinehart and
other members of the founding team, and trying the drink myself I have to
advise that you consider investing in this company for the long term. The idea
is potentially revolutionary in the way that we think about and utilize food
across the planet. Soylent makes sense socially, environmentally, and
financially. In a modern busy world, Soylent could be the next great addition
to human’s never-ending pursuit of efficiency.
Whether
or not AMDP invests with Soylent or not, I guarantee others soon will. The meal
replacement is not for everyone and is still is stages of redevelopment and
initial growth, but there is a strong market existing for this product as I
have seen first hand and continually read about online. Once the young founders
have ironed out the details and created a final version of the product
restaurants, grocery stores, and other healthy supplements should watch out!
The Blue Sweater by Jacqueline Novogratz opens with a quote
from Nelson Mandela that immediately stuck with me. “There is no passion to be
found playing small in settling for a life that is less than the one you are
capable of living”. After delving into an anecdote about a discarded childhood
sweater from the 1970s, Novogratz establishes that her book is more than an
unfamiliar transition from Wall Street to the slums of Rio de Janeiro, but a
call to live life loudly. She quickly recalls her early desire to change the
world, a desire that found her even when she felt she was the farthest from
making any real change.
What
initially interested me in the book was Novogratz indirect path to ultimately
start philanthropic organizations such as the Acumen Fund and Duterimbere.
Uncertain of how to reach the world and make the change she wanted to see, the
post-grad feel into the world of international finance. Although at first
appearing to distance herself from the realization of her dreams, it was the
introduction of accounting and banking that enabled her to reach the poverty
stricken world that caught her attention. As a new hire for Manhattan Chase
Bank, it was her job to travel the world and check on the company’s investments,
affording her the opportunity to witness devastating socioeconomic divisions up
close and personal.
When
I started college just 3 years ago, I had the same desire to change the world
and relinquish any monetary necessities. As an Architecture major, my goal was
to build low-income sustainable housing in under developed low socioeconomic
communities around the world. Since freshman year I have changed my major a few
times, but my goal remains the same. I want to make the world a better place
and it is comforting to hear Novogratz story as she initially found it
difficult to have an impact, but used the resources and opportunities afforded
to her in order to reach her goals of changing the world.
LA Flea Markets: Sustainable Vintage Final Article
Los
Angeles is well known for its beaches, movie stars, and basketball dynasties,
but less famously as the scene of a thriving desire for old and vintage culture.
From records to old furniture people love nostalgic pieces of the past. Flea
Markets are one of the best sources for forgotten treasure and priceless
memorabilia. I have been to flea markets in New York and London, but Los
Angeles rivals the even the most celebrated bazaars of the past with the most
extensive and continuous collections of cool stuff.
Flea
markets are supportive of a sustainable and healthy community as members focus
on recycling, trading, and bartering for used objects. Organized flea markets
are also a unifying community event bringing people together outside to window
shop, meet people, and try the new food trucks. Supporting local businesses,
musicians, and artists flea markets provide a platform for growing culture as
well as sharing cultural artifacts of the past. There are several flea markets
in Los Angeles worth a visit on your next day off or even if you’re just
visiting LA for a few days.
1. Rose Bowl Flea
Market
The
biggest and oldest flea market in Los Angeles, this market hosted on the second
Sunday of every month is located at the Rose Bowl. Celebrating 45 years the
Rose Bowl Flea Market now has over 2,500 vendors and 20,000 guests every month.
Walk for hours through an endless selection vintage collectibles, art, and even
fine glassware. Maybe a larger crowd than the average flea market, but you are
guaranteed to find something you can not go home with out. Get there early
before all the best items are gone!
Next Date: July 12th
1001
Rose Bowl Drive
Pasadena,
CA 91103
2. Melrose Trading
Post
The
Melrose Trading Post is organized and presented by the Greenway Arts Alliance
every Sunday on the grounds of Fairfax High School. A community based
non-profit, the flea market raises money for the school and offers job
opportunities to the students by charging admission and vendor fees. Greenway
Arts Alliance works to support local small businesses and young artists by
providing curated weekly changing vendors. Host to over 4,000 people a weekend
the Melrose Trading Post is quickly growing in popularity, you even may catch
some live music.
Next Dates: July 5th, 12th,
19th
7850
Melrose Avenue
Los
Angeles, CA 90046
$3
Admission
3. A Current Affair
A
Current Affair is more of a vintage event than a flea market. Just three times
a year, event planners bring the best vintage culture from across the country
to the thriving Los Angeles community. Located in downtown Los Angeles in The
Cooper Design Space, this market is much more selective with just over 50
vendors per day. This pop-up flea market has a more curated and industry
relevant collection than any of the others, but is hard to catch!
Next
Date: Sept 26th, 27th
860
South Los Angeles St.
Los
Angeles, CA 90014
4. Silverlake Flea:
Art Craft & Vintage
Hosted
on the second Saturday of each month, the silver lake flea market has a
distinct handmade and eclectic market. Located on the playground of the
Micheltorena Elementary School Playground the market works in part to benefit
the school. Silverlake Flea has a selection of DIY products, jewelry, and
vintage clothes. Food trucks revolve throughout the day offering options for
any palette. Uniquely this flea market has ping-pong tables and other
activities open to the public if you need a break from shopping. Free parking
Next Date: July 11th
1511
Micheltorena St.
Los
Angeles, CA 90026
5. Artist & Fleas
DTLA
The
downtown flea market is the newest member of the list after opening its doors
for the first time in the summer of 2014. Organized by Arts & Fleas, who
previously founded similar designer and vintage markets in Williamsburg and
Chelsea Market. Located in the Arts District, the surrounding area is full of
great places to eat, coffee shops, and local exhibits. On the third weekend of
every month join the downtown LA community for a unique curated flea market
with local crafts and high-end startups alike.
Next Date: July 18th, 19th
647
San Mateo Street
Los
Angeles, CA
6. Long Beach Antique
Market
The
Long Beach Antique Market has been hoisted as the “Top Flea Market in the U.S.”
and been organized since 1982. The
market, located in Veterans Stadium, is organized on the third Sunday of every
Month. Although one of the biggest markets in Los Angeles with over 800 sellers
each month, this flea market offers a different collection, geared more towards
home decor. The Long Beach Antique Market is the essential place to hunt for large
decorating items, vintage furniture, and possible celebrity sightings.
Admission is $6, but children are free and if you to their website you should be
able to find some discounts!
On
the first Sunday of every month the PCC flea market is considerably smaller
than the previous two. Host to fewer than 500 vendors what this flea market
lacks in quantity in makes up for in quality. You can find high-end antiques
and authentic products that only Old Town Pasadena could provide. Admission is
free, but parking will cost you $2 for the day. The first nonprofit community college
flea market in the nation since the 1970s, the PCC supports student life
programs.
Next Date: July 5th
1750
East Colorado Blvd
Pasadena,
CA 91106
9. Santa Monica
Airport
The
Santa Monica Airport Antique & Collectible Market is organized on the 1st
and 4th Sunday of every month. This flea market has a large array of
jewelry, fashion, and finer furnishings. Anything from vintage couture to linen
and china, but look out these vendors are notorious for being tough to bargain
with. Either the Santa Monica Market needs to catch up with the times or these
sellers have products they’re nervous to part with. Another long lasting market
in Los Angeles, the Santa Monica Airport knows how to organize a flea market
and have for over 30 years.
Next Date: July 26th
3050
Airport Ave
Santa
Monica, CA 90405
Each
of the flea markets on this list is exceptional in its own way and you’re
guaranteed to go home with something new or at least try some good food. Los
Angeles is abundant with flea markets and vintage swap meets as I discover new
events all the time. The GCC Swap Meet, Venice High Flea Market, the Topanga
Vintage Market, and many other flea markets are not mentioned in this article
but also highly recommended. Go out and visit a flea market when you have a
free weekend and support sustainable living and small local business.
Sources:
Artists & Fleas
http://www.artistsandfleas.com/
Melrose Trading Post
http://melrosetradingpost.org/
Fried, Benjamin. "Shedding Light on
Markets - Project for Public Spaces." Project
for Public Spaces. Web. <http://www.pps.org/reference/nov2003feature/>
Project for Public Spaces, Partners for
Viable Communities. "Public Markets as A Vehicle
for Social Integration and Upward Mobility." Phase I Report: An Overview
of Existing Programs (2003).http://www.pps.org/pdf/Ford_Report.pdf
Martin, Monique. "Best Flea Markets
In Los Angeles." CBS Los Angeles.
2 Feb. 2015. Web.
11 July 2015. <http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/top-lists/best-flea-markets-in-los-angeles/>.
I
recently watched the ESPN 30 for 30 documentary “I Hate Christian Laettner”,
which follows one of the greatest and also most hated collegiate basketball
athletes of all time. Christian Laettner lead Duke to the Final Four in four
straight years from 1988-1992 and won the National Championship twice. Although
it would seem he should be remembered as a sports hero his name lives on in
jeers and cheap t-shirts. What is it about Laettner that has caused so many to
hate him for so long?
Before
changing the channel I questioned of my own dislike for Duke basketball, which
I have retained since before I can remember, and failed to find a worthy
reason. The only answer I had for rooting against them every March is because
they’re good each and every year contending for the title. People voice their
hatred for Duke, Laettner, and similar sports dynasties such as the New England
Patriots or New York Yankees because of a cultural love for the underdog.
Laettner
unfortunately got a bad wrap for being the face of a basketball program that
was just really good. Duke is hated across the nation because they beat almost
every team they play every season and travel the country breaking the hearts of
home fans. It was those angry fans and people rooting against Duke that lead to
Laettner’s greatness, he fed off their energy and seemed to play his best on
the biggest stages. Maybe sports need enemies, villains, Dukes, and Christian
Laettners to feed the competition, but how far should it go? Should we really
jeer the players and teams that are ultimately the best at what they do and
chose to idolize others?
Love
him or hate him, Christian Laettner still holds the NCAA Basketball record in
Most Points Scored, Most Free Throws Made, Most Free Throw Attempts, Most Games
Won, and Most Games Played.
I’ll
admit that I was hesitant to start reading The Genius of Money by John Bloom
when it was first introduced in class. However, I quickly gained interest in
the book, as I was lead into an investigation of money from a unique artistic
perspective.The opening section,
“The Poetics of Money” follows selected artworks from Ancient Greece to
Contemporary New York in order to better understand the iconic imagery of money
in transforming generations.
Bloom’s
desire to shine a light on how ideologies and attitudes are formed about money
both consciously and subconsciously is an engaging invitation into the
psychological characteristics of business. In social psychology we are taught
about social schemas, which are used in everyday life in order to help us
understand and explore the world. From a young age social schemas are developed
through experience to inform individuals what to expect in a variety of
situations and are then stored in long-term memory for later recall. John
Bloom’s analysis of renowned artwork highlights an avenue through which social
schemas mold perspectives of money in early development.
Before
we are even old enough to have money we are taught about the necessity and
desire to obtain money. John Bloom aims to support freethinking and hopes to
inspire “our own consciousness”, but I have to question to what extent this is
possible.The first section of his
book illustrates that for hundreds of years individuals have questioned the
role and power of money in society, but have failed to spark any real change.
Money only appears to gain ground in its constricting grasp and control over
our lives with each passing generation.
Inspired
by professor Hansen’s tree tour a week ago, I felt the need to share my own
favorite tree with you all. I’m from a rural town right outside of Philadelphia,
home to some of the most beautiful trees I have ever seen. Lakes, rivers, and
streams surround my house scattered with lush forest on the edges of the
Appalachian Mountains. One of the most dominant trees in the landscape and
oldest native trees to the region is the Black Willow Tree, which grow directly
along the riverbanks and near water.
The
Black Willow, also known as the Weeping Willow, is the largest of North
American willow trees growing to over 100 ft. in height. Originally from China,
it was later cultivated and traded on the Silk Road to Southeast Asia and
Europe. Later making its way to North America many hybrid willow trees and new
species were introduced.
One
of the Willow Trees most unique qualities is its soil binding nature. Most
frequently found along rivers and banks the fibrous root system helps to
prevent the soil and banks from washing away. The flowers are formed in long
drooping catkins produced in the early spring and the leaves are small narrow
spirally arranged changing from bright green to yellow and red in late autumn.
They
have a relatively short lifespan, averaging about 60 - 100 years. The large
reaching branches and soft water soaked bark make the trees especially susceptible
to lightning and storm winds that other trees avoid. I have yet to see a willow
on campus or even in Southern California so far, but I’ll keep my eyes open and
you should too!
After completing The Omnivore’s Dilemma is was interesting
to follow Pollan’s transition in perspective regarding the ethics of eating
animals. Originally he endorsed a more vegetarian focused diet after shadowing
unhealthy big industry production. Then Pollan questions whether or not it’s
sustainability that makes the perfect meal. It’s essential to question where
our food comes from, what is it that we’re really eating?
I
was not sure how I felt about his claim that United States is victim to a lack
of a dominant food culture, which effectively leads to increased cases of
obesity and weight disorders. I’m sure there are hundreds of chefs across the
country that would argue American cuisine is a thriving industry, full of
healthy and sustainable options. I would agree that the fast food and many
other quick eating options flood the contemporary diet however.
I
have to admit I got McDonald’s just the other day and did not feel the
slightest remorse about it. The unfortunate truth is that eating a fully sustainable
hand cooked meal day in and day out is just unrealistic. We can attempt to eat as
healthy as we can within our means but location, income, and tradition continue
the necessity for quick food options. Pollan’s book will force me to question
more often and seek the healthier option whenever possible, but everything in
moderation I was always taught.
I
recently visited the Getty Center in Los Angeles, one of my favorite places to
visit in the city, to see an exhibit entitled Rainbow Lake. Rainbow Lake is an
experimental photography exhibit by artist Matthew Brandt. The show is a part
of the Light, Paper, Process: Reinventing Photography collection showing until
later this September. The exhibit focuses on the desire for constant
exploration and experimentation with the photographic medium since it’s
beginning in the early 19th century.
Several
artists are apart of the show, each similar in their investigation of light
sensitivity and disturbing the natural chemical process involved with
traditional photography. The exhibit gives a snapshot of past artists, as well
as artists working today that are successful in thoroughly interrogating the
medium and attempting to reinvent the art form. What is a photograph?
My
favorite room in the exhibit was Rainbow Lake, a room designated for Brandt’s
work. He begins his artistic process by traveling the country photographing
various lakes, cities, and natural scenes. His work then comes to life in disturbing
the alchemy of the developing process and experimenting with the potential
effects of chemicals, time, and color that other photographers have yet to
question. Many of his photos were soaked in water from the lakes they depict or
left to develop for months at a time, just to see what could happen. The exhibit
is very unlike the standard conventional painting and drawing exhibits that the
Getty is usually host to and I recommend it to anyone looking for a day trip in
LA.
In the first quarter of Michael Pollen’s, The Omnivore’s
Dilemma, I was surprised by the overwhelming use of corn in the United States
with each turn of the page. Before reading this book I hate no idea of the
extent to which corn dominates the agricultural industry, now harvesting over
10 billion bushels a year. I appreciate Pollen’s writing about traveling to
specific farms in Iowa and Kansas. He spoke with farmers across the Midwest and
appears to have thoroughly investigated the permeating influence of corn into
the U.S. market.
Specifically
the effects of Industrial Corn are staggering. Our diet exists of almost
entirely corn. Americans feed their livestock with corn and corn products. Over
50% of the corn produced in the United States goes to feeding livestock at
feedlots. The fact that stuck with me was that feeding livestock corn cuts the
animal’s average lifespan in half. The drastic change in diet and consistent
unhealthy conditions prevent their full growth.
The
effect of using corn to an excessive amount is depicted most clearly in the
health of the American people. Over 200,000 products in supermarkets, as well
as the structural material of the supermarket itself come from industrial corn
products. Creating and consuming processed foods has lead to a 60% obesity rate
in American adults. Cheaper, faster options often beat out homegrown, organic,
healthy food choices. After all it appears that as with everything else, money
does mold and shape our diet whether we think we have a say in it or not. Corn
is king and it’s going to take a mass boycott of corn products before we see a
decline in corn products.
I
am currently a design intern at a small t-shirt and sublimation printing
company called Artist Threads. The company is located in Costa Mesa, California
just about forty minutes south of Los Angeles and started a few years ago by
two brothers from Southern California. The company focuses on discovering,
signing, and promoting artists through clothing and apparel.
The
employees of the company attend gallery openings, art walks, and attempt to
meet as many people as possible in the art community. The Talent Acquisition
Team works to sign artists to the brand and allow the company to use their work
for manufacturing. There are three interns for the summer that all work closely
with one another in the same office and often on the same projects.
Artist
Threads also manufactures and designs work for various skate and clothing
companies such as Stussy and Adidas. The company currently owns a printing and
cut & sow warehouse where most of the products are designed, manufactured,
and shipped from. The company sells the majority of their work through their
website and through selling mass orders to other larger companies. Although the
company is relatively young, they are growing quickly and are planning to
launch their official cell phone app this week.
As
an intern my job has a few specific responsibilities. I work as both a product
design intern and as a graphic design intern. As a graphic design intern I
focus on the online platform of the company and the branding of newsletters and
social media material. I am responsible for selecting and photographing new
products with my boss, one of the founders of the company.
I
then design newsletters and promotional print advertisements that are either
emailed or given away at events, skate competitions, or galleries. It’s an
important part of the business, especially early on, to promote and present the
company correctly in order to attract a demanding market. The company is also
about to release the official app this week and I have been working over the
last month with another interns to design the layout.
As
a product design intern I work to come up with new ideas for potential products
and sketch designs. After working on numerous designs and products the best
ones are selected and discussed with the founders, other designers, and interns
of the company. Only a few of my t-shirts have been selected so far, but it’s a
start. Products include t-shirts, sweatshirts, socks, shorts, hats, bathing
suits, and posters. I also work hands on in the printing process and learn how
to operate the sublimation printing machines shadowing one of the co-founders,
Zach.
To
create t-shirt designs, newsletters, posters or any other product that I may be
asked to work on I sketch ideas and then use mostly Illustrator and Photoshop
to edit and finalize printable graphics. A lot of my work as an intern includes
editing and finalizing the illustrations of the main Artist Threads designers
and preparing them for the printing process.
Sublimation
printing uses a dye-sublimation printer, which utilizes heat to transfer dye
onto fabrics. Dye-sublimation creates images that do not fade or peel and are
permanent. Designs are printed with continuous tones and gradients that cannot
be achieved by other ordinary textile printing methods. With sublimation
printing the company is able to print exceptional colors due to the special
dyes.
The
company also hosts a cut & sow factory with hired workers to manufacture
products on the other spectrum of apparel. The cut & sow industry produces
a more handmade, authentic product than photographic imagery produced with
sublimation printing. As a product design intern I get to work with various
applications of design and a wide range of different fabrics.
I
work very closely with the other designers and founders of the company because
the company is still very small and growing. As an intern it is a great
opportunity to get to work hands on in every aspect from conception to production
in running Artist Threads.
